Cambodia makes a surprising statement after withdrawing from the SEA Games.

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - Despite the Cambodian sports delegation withdrawing from all events at the SEA Games, the head of the Cambodian sports delegation, Nhan Sokvisal, still affirmed that they had… fulfilled their mission.

One day after the opening ceremony of the SEA Games (December 9th), the Cambodian sports delegation unexpectedly announced its withdrawal from all events at the tournament. This sent shockwaves through the Southeast Asian sports community.

The reason given by the Cambodian side was to ensure the safety of the athletes, as requested by their families. After the entire Cambodian delegation returned home, Head of Delegation Nhan Sokvisal described their mission as accomplished.

The Cambodian sports delegation participates in the opening ceremony of the SEA Games (Photo: Kampuchea Thmey).

Mr. Nhan Sokvisal shared: “We completed our mission in a short and truly meaningful time. I would like to express my gratitude to our families, relatives, and friends who cared for us. The Cambodian delegation has returned safely.”

The Secretary General of the Cambodian Olympic Committee, Vath Chamroeun, emphasized: “Overall, before returning home, we have fulfilled our obligations. The Cambodian sports delegation participated in the technical meeting, attended the flag-raising ceremony and the opening ceremony. The host country, Thailand, was very hospitable, welcoming us warmly in accordance with sporting protocol.”

The Cambodian sports delegation has returned home (Photo: Phnom Penh Post).

Deputy Prime Minister Thong Khon, President of the Cambodian National Olympic Committee, expressed his gratitude for all those who supported the decision to withdraw the Cambodian sports delegation and athletes from the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand.

He also emphasized that Cambodia's participation in the 33rd SEA Games, albeit in very small numbers, had fulfilled its obligation as a member of the Southeast Asian Games Council. Cambodia attended the Council meeting, participated in the flag-raising ceremony of the member countries, and was present at the opening ceremony of the Games.

Therefore, neither the Southeast Asian Games Council, the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the International Olympic Committee (IOC), nor any other Olympic sports organizations can criticize or accuse Cambodia of its decision to withdraw its delegation and athletes, as Cambodia has fully fulfilled its obligations.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/campuchia-dua-ra-tuyen-bo-bat-ngo-after-withdrawing-from-sea-games-20251212135659186.htm